The discussion covers the various problems that confront world civilization today -- including terrorism, the population explosion, environmental dangers, and an escalation in random violence. The Dalai Lama exhibits his characteristic warmth and clarity of thought throughout each of these talks, but what readers will find most valuable is his ability to cut through to the essence of each issue and offer insightful guidance. Carriere, though respectful, never settles for pat answers and consistently asks the down-to-earth questions readers themselves would undoubtedly have asked.

The insightful dialogues contained in "Violence and Compassion" brings humanity the profound wisdom needed to tackle the challenges of the twenty-first century.